Saint
Paphnutius the Recluse of the Kiev Caves
Venerable Paphnutius and his Daughter Euphrosyne (5th C)
New Calendar February 15 Old Calendar February 28
Why they are a saint
Saint Paphnutius had the gift of tears, which Saint John of the Ladder says (Step 6:1) is preceded by the remembrance of death. The Orthodox Church commemorates Paphnutius the Recluse of the Kiev Caves on February 15.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Paphnutius the Recluse of the Kiev Caves as a patron when they bear the name Paphnutius at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on February 15. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Paphnutius the Recluse of the Kiev Caves, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.